Are you the U.S. widebody Mitsubishi i-MiEV?

Mitsubishi will be launching its all-electric i-MiEV in the United States next year, though it will be substantially updated from the current model sold overseas. In addition to a slightly wider shape, we can expect better interior amenities with more creature comforts and a higher level of fit and finish.

We've stumbled upon one of Mitsubishi's business plan presentations on the automaker's global corporate site, and therein lies two renderings of what the upgraded U.S.-spec car might look like. It appears that the too-cute bubbly proportions of the current i-MiEV will remain intact, albeit with a much more aggressive front fascia and wider track. As we noted in our review of a JDM-spec i-MiEV, added width would indeed make the diminutive hatch feel more planted on the road, and while we rather like the design of the current car, the revised styling is sure to be more attractive to the vast majority of U.S. shoppers.

Look for the production U.S.-spec i-MiEV to debut sometime next year. Mitsubishi is still targeting a price of under $30,000 (not including government incentives) when the car hits dealerships at the end of 2011. Hat tip to Ryan!

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Anonymous

Anonymous

4 Years Ago

I think if you want electric cars to catch on in this country you should start out by putting an electric powertrain in a car that looks like a normal car, like Tesla. Once people are comfortable with that, introduce the off-the-wall EV designs that you know you have been thinking about.

Introducing a car that is similar to a jellybean in both looks and functionality is a mistake. Especially for $30,000. Especially when you're Mitsubishi.

Anonymous

Anonymous

4 Years Ago

I still say, if Mitsu's going to go to the trouble of adapting the car for US crash/equipment requirements, they should at least make the MUCH-cheaper gasoline drivetrain available... I mean, electric cars are nice, and all, but wouldn't it be neat to have what would essentially be a true 4-seater smart?

Anonymous

4 Years Ago

I think they are developing the Colt as the small subcompact world car and leaving the i as electric only. It seems to work best in this country to have your hybird/EV or whatever be a unique body style so prestigious green conscious people can identify if from a hundred yards away.

Anonymous

4 Years Ago

Sadly, I think you're right... what's the point of have an eco-vehicle if you can't be smug and shout it from the rooftops with a unique-looking vehicle? *sigh* :(

The Colt is fine and all, but the i is mid-engined and rear-wheel drive... imagine how much fun it would be to tune one of those up and hoon it around? ...and I can't help but have a softspot in my heart for minutely-dimensioned vehicles with surprising interior space.